6 Ways Illinois Residents Can Still Get in Trouble for Cannabis

 Posted on March 13, 2024 in Drug Charges

Recreational cannabis use has been legal for adults over 21 years old in Illinois for years now. Legalization was widely regarded as a step towards reducing the number of people who are incarcerated for very minor drug crimes. Most people can purchase, possess, and use reasonable amounts of marijuana legally. However, there are still situations where an Illinois resident can face criminal prosecution for cannabis-related crimes. THC products are generally legal but regulated. If you have been arrested in Illinois for a cannabis charge, it is important to consult with a DuPage County drug crimes attorney immediately. Some charges can even be considered felonies.

Types of Cannabis Offenses Still Prosecuted in Illinois

A few ways Illinois residents and visitors to the state can get arrested and charged with a crime related to marijuana include:

• Possessing excessive amounts - Possessing a small amount for personal use is legal. However, having an excessive quantity may still suggest to the state that you planned to illegally distribute the product to others. 
• Crossing state lines - Because marijuana is still federally illegal, it is illegal to bring it into the state from elsewhere or to leave the state with THC products in your possession. 
• Minor in possession - You must be at least 21 years old to use recreational cannabis in Illinois. Similar to how minors can be prosecuted for possessing alcohol, minors can also be prosecuted for possessing cannabis products. 
• Distributing without a license - Just as bars and liquor stores must have a permit to be allowed to sell liquor, cannabis dispensaries must be licensed to sell THC products. If you are caught selling marijuana to other people and are not a licensed dispensary, you can be prosecuted. 
• Distributing to minors - Just as you cannot buy beer and then serve it to someone who is not 21 years old yet, you cannot buy cannabis and provide it to a minor. This includes offering cannabis at a house party and leaving it where it is easily accessible to underage persons. 
• Driving under the influence - A person caught driving while under the influence of cannabis can be charged with a DUI, just as they could if they were intoxicated by alcohol or any other legal but regulated substance.

If you are charged with any of these crimes, it is important to take your case very seriously and find a good criminal defense lawyer.

Contact a Naperville, IL, Drug Crimes Lawyer

Appelman Law LLC is experienced in helping people who have been charged with cannabis-related crimes in Illinois. Our knowledgeable DuPage County, IL, marijuana crimes attorneys will do all we can to help you avoid a serious sentence. Contact us at 630-717-7801 for a complimentary consultation.